Image Sensor WAM Readout for Faster 3D Pixel Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D imaging systems based on light triangulation suffer from delays in pixel readout processes, limiting throughput and the ability to support high-speed applications.
Innovation Solution
A method that identifies a 'winner' pixel in each column of the image sensor during exposure by reaching a threshold value, associates it with a Window Around Maximum (WAM) position, and reads out pixel values in parallel based on these positions, reducing the need to read out entire rows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If parallel readout of entire pixel rows is performed, then all pixel data is captured, but readout time and system delay increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and reads out only the relevant pixel data corresponding to the laser line position, rather than reading out all pixels in entire rows. By identifying the specific column range containing the laser line and reading out only those pixels, the system eliminates unnecessary readout operations, thereby reducing readout time and system delay while still capturing all necessary measurement data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the pixel array into relevant and irrelevant portions based on the laser line position. By dividing the sensor output into specific column ranges that contain the laser line versus other columns, the system processes only the segmented relevant portion, reducing the overall readout time while maintaining measurement completeness.
2Measurement precision
If sequential row-by-row readout is performed, then all pixels are read out, but throughput is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the necessary pixel columns containing the laser line information and reads them out in parallel, eliminating the need for sequential row-by-row processing. This extraction approach maintains complete capture of relevant measurement data while dramatically improving throughput by processing multiple pixels simultaneously rather than sequentially.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the readout operation based on the detected laser line position. The system determines the actual column range containing the laser line and configures the readout operation accordingly, enabling flexible parallel processing of the relevant pixel columns. This dynamic approach maximizes throughput by adapting the readout strategy to the actual measurement requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach significantly reduces the number of readouts required, enabling faster and more efficient 3D imaging by focusing on relevant pixel groups within WAMs, thus facilitating higher throughput and supporting high-speed applications.
Implementation Method 1
exposes pixels of at least said region of the image sensor, whereby the exposed pixels attain analogue pixel values, respectively, corresponding to sensed light during the exposure
Data Source
AI summary
Method and arrangements (431; 433; 1000), for provision of pixel values for readout from pixels of an image sensor (431). It is obtained (501) information indicating a threshold pixel value and a window at, or around, maximum, WAM, width (257; 357; 657) corresponding to a number of pixels. Pixels of the image sensor (431) are exposed whereby the exposed pixels attain analogue pixel values. It is identified (503) a pixel (255; 355; 655) in respective image sensor column (252; 352) whose analogue pixel value during said exposure was first in said respective column (252; 352) to reach or pass said threshold pixel value. Said identified respective pixel group (255; 355; 655) is associated (505) with a respective certain WAM position of a respective WAM (258; 358; 658) in said respective image sensor column (252; 352) with said WAM width (257; 357; 657). It is provided (506), for parallel readout per WAM position and based on said exposure, pixel values of pixels associated with the same WAM position (364; 664) in their respective WAM (258; 358; 658).